About My Quiet Riot

Hi. I'm Ngaire, founder of My Quiet Riot.

 

A year ago, at 44 years old I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive breast cancer.

​

As part of my ongoing treatment, in April this year I underwent a mastectomy down to my chest wall. I was surprised at how much it affected me emotionally. I felt like my cancer had already robbed me of so much. It had taken my hair, my energy, my femininity, my self-esteem, my confidence, my identity, and visibly had taken my outward physical appearance as a woman.

 

In the days after surgery, I was very fortunate to receive recovery bras from the McGrath Foundation, the Mater Chicks in Pink, and the most beautiful inserts from the Country Women's Association. These bras got me through the immediate time after surgery, they felt like a soft hug and I felt cared for.

After that of course, it was time to be fitted for everyday silicone inserts and some new specialised bras and swimwear. I was anxious to be out in public, not really feeling comfortable in my own body. But off I went knowing this was the next step and would help me feel better about myself.

 

When it came to pay, it cost me over $1200 up front. As I was about to tap my card to pay, I distinctly remember thinking "what do women do who can't afford this?" (and also... "this is bull$h*t")! I felt utterly heartbroken at the thought of another woman feeling the way I did and not being able to afford what they needed. 

 

I knew I was in an incredibly privileged position to be able to pay outright and these thoughts sat with me FOR DAYS! I felt saddened and frustrated (actually let's be honest, I felt ANGRY). 

​

So I've decided to do something about it.

 

As women we already know that one bra doesn’t fit all, let alone after having one or two breasts removed (and then add a new silicone insert into the mix). It’s not straightforward, it’s confusing and somewhat daunting. These are unique and specialised bras, and they need to be fitted by professionals.

​​

I want to raise funds for women after breast cancer surgery, so the question of "can I afford the specialised bras I need?", isn't even a question. So that women who have gone through this disfiguring and cruel surgery shouldn't have the added stress of finding funds, at a time when they are already emotionally and physically vulnerable. That there are zero barriers for women like me to walk into a store and buy exactly what they need. I need people to understand that these bras are a necessity NOT a luxury.

 

My Quiet Riot will be selling apparel where proceeds will go directly into the hands of the women who need it. When you purchase an item from our store you are buying something that will make a distinct impact for someone, helping them to feel like themselves again.​​​​​

​​

Cancer is scary, brutal, and cruel. Let’s lessen that blow for other women.​​​​

​​​

​

Ngaire 

​